The University of the South Pacific (USP) has marked a significant milestone in renewable energy education and workforce development with the official opening of its new Sustainable Energy Training Centre.
A purpose-built facility that will support the development of industry-ready skills and strengthen the Pacific region’s transition towards sustainable energy systems.
The Centre was officially opened by Fiji’s Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Honourable Ro Filipe Tuisawau, during a ceremony attended by government representatives, industry leaders, development partners, academic staff, students and regional stakeholders.
USP Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Council, the Right Honourable Siosiua Utoikamanu, described the Centre as a major investment in the future of renewable energy skills development in Fiji and across the Pacific.
He acknowledged the support of the Government of Fiji, industry partners and The Philanthropic Foundation from the United States whose significant contribution made the project possible.
“This is a significant investment, not simply in a building, but in the people and skills that will support the sustainable energy future of Fiji and the Pacific,” he said.
Pro-Chancellor said the Centre demonstrates what can be achieved when government, education, industry and development partners work together towards a common purpose.
“Across the Pacific, our countries are seeking to strengthen energy security, expand the use of renewable energy and build the technical capacity needed to support more sustainable energy systems. Through Pacific TAFE, USP remains committed to providing practical and accessible training that responds to the needs of industry and communities while creating opportunities for people to acquire skills that contribute to sustainable development.”
Developed through a collaborative partnership involving USP Pacific Technical and Further Education (Pacific TAFE), the Sustainable Energy Industry Association of the Pacific Islands (SEIAPI), industry stakeholders and international supporters, the Centre is expected to play a critical role in equipping current and future generations with the practical skills needed to support renewable energy transitions across the region.
Delivering the keynote address, Honourable Ro Filipe Tuisawau reflected on his personal connection to USP as both a former student and lecturer.
“Energy is the heart of development. It powers our homes, schools, hospitals, industries and transport systems. Yet as we look to the future, we must find ways to meet our growing energy needs while protecting our environment and strengthening our resilience to climate change.”
The Minister noted that sustainability is about more than protecting the environment.
“For Pacific nations on the front line of climate change, sustainability is not simply an environmental issue. It is an issue of livelihoods, economic security, food security and the future of our people.”
He said the Centre would help develop the skilled workforce needed to accelerate the region’s renewable energy ambitions.
“The Centre will help train technicians, engineers, entrepreneurs, students and community leaders in areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, solar technology, energy management and emerging clean-energy solutions. We need skilled people who can install, operate, maintain and innovate these technologies.”
The Minister also encouraged young people to embrace opportunities within the renewable energy sector.
“We need young people who see renewable energy not only as a career opportunity but as a meaningful way to contribute to the future of our Pacific countries.”
Representing the Philanthropic Foundation that supported the project, Geoff Stapleton said the Centre was the result of years of planning, collaboration and commitment by industry and education partners.
Speaking on behalf of the foundation, he shared a message from the organisation:
“The funding organisation is proud of all the work undertaken by SEIAPI, USP Pacific TAFE, USP’s Infrastructure Section and the construction team to support the renewable energy industry in Fiji and across the Pacific. We also thank the industry partners who donated equipment to support this Centre.”
Stapleton said the facility fulfils a long-held vision for the renewable energy industry in the Pacific.
“This Centre helps fulfil one of the industry’s long-term objectives, creating a place in the Pacific that can deliver the specialised training needed to support the growing renewable energy sector.”
He also paid tribute to renewable energy pioneer Dr Herb Wade, whose early work helped shape the vision for a regional training centre.
“Back in 2005, Dr Wade and I co-authored a renewable energy training initiative that envisioned a centre in Fiji capable of supporting sustainable energy development throughout the Pacific. Today’s opening represents the realisation of that vision.”
The Sustainable Energy Training Centre will provide industry-responsive training in areas including solar photovoltaic systems, energy efficiency, battery storage technologies, electrical transport systems, inspection and quality assurance, rural electrification and emerging clean-energy technologies.
By combining practical learning facilities with strong industry partnerships, the Centre will create pathways for students, technicians, tradespeople and communities to gain specialised expertise needed for a rapidly evolving energy sector.
The opening of the Centre reinforces USP’s commitment to supporting sustainable development, climate resilience and workforce readiness across the Pacific, while strengthening its role as the region’s premier institution for higher education and skills development.
USPs Sustainable Energy Training Centre, designed to deliver industry-relevant training in renewable energy technologies for the Pacific.
USP student Guests explore industry-standard renewable energy training equipment at USPs Sustainable Energy Training Centre, designed to build practical skills in sustainable energy technologies.
